Around 3,800 scout leaders gathered this weekend at Hoge Rielen in Kasterlee, Antwerp province, for the annual Autumn Encounter to mark the start of the new scouting year, unveiled under the theme “Scoutentiek.”
The theme focuses on rediscovering the “original scouting method.” Spokesperson Jan Van Reusel explained: “This means embracing both independence and collaboration, with skills like map reading, compass use, cooking over an open fire, and teamwork taking centre stage.”
Van Reusel added that technology would take a back seat this year. “For scouts and guides, ‘offline’ is the new ‘off-road’: not just watching but participating. The authenticity in this approach allows members and leaders to make scouting deeply meaningful.”
National chairperson Dries Van Eyck urged leaders to step up and take responsibility. “Scouting is about making lifelong friends, learning teamwork, and taking on commitments. For this to remain a transformative experience, leaders must continue their vital role in creating, safeguarding, and rebuilding a safe group environment whenever necessary,” he said.
The Autumn Encounter ran smoothly, thanks to the efforts of hundreds of volunteers, according to Van Reusel.
Membership numbers for Scouts and Guides of Flanders remain steady at around 80,000. However, local differences persist, with some groups facing waiting lists or member caps while others struggle with declining numbers.
